'Hollyoaks' announces raft of new castings

Channel 4 soap Hollyoaks this afternoon announced a raft of new signings as part of the show's overhaul.

Former The Bill actress Kim Tiddy joins the cast as ex-model and headstrong mother Heidi, the matriarchal figurehead of the soap's new family - the Costellos.

Heidi's former footballer husband Carl - played by The Chase actor Paul Opacic - arrives at the same time, along with their two children - ladies' man Riley (Rob Norbury) and his younger brother Seth (Miles Higson), who's desperate to prove himself to his parents.

Meanwhile, as DSexclusively revealed last month, Phina Oruche joins as Gabby Sharpe, who finds herself in the village as she attempts to flee from her husband Phil (Andonis Anthony). Her escape is thrown into jeopardy, however, when she's knocked down and rescued by one of the show's regulars.

Gabby takes an instant shine to her suitor but as she struggles to cope with her two children Taylor (Shaun Blackstock) and Amber (Lydia Lloyd-Henry), she soon begins to question whether running from her old life was such a good move.

Ex-Waterloo Road actress Rachel Shenton turns up in Hollyoaks as wannabe glamour model Mitzeee, who's desperate to experience the high life Heidi Costello once had - but just how far will she go in order to secure her dream?

Finally, Alex Carter's return to the programme as Lee Hunter has been confirmed, as his screen counterpart makes his way back to the village in the hope of making a fresh start.

Speaking about the hoard of newcomers, series producer Paul Marquess said: "We can't wait for this huge new boost of energy exploding on screen. These exciting new characters join our fantastic core cast. Together they will ensure that 2010 will be a year to remember on Hollyoaks."
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